What are the differences between the "Gigabit" PowerBook G4 (550/667) models?

Please note that the "Gigabit" PowerBook G4 series was introduced on October 16, 2001 and discontinued April 29, 2002.

The differences between the PowerBook G4/550 (Gigabit - Ti) and PowerBook G4/667 (Gigabit - Ti) are relatively minor. Both systems share a slightly thicker version of the ultrasleek Titanium case and the 15.2" TFT widescreen display introduced with the original PowerBook G4 models.

However, the "Gigabit" models introduce "Gigabit" Ethernet capability -- as the unofficial name notes -- as well as faster processors with "on chip" level 2 cache, and a new motherboard design with support for faster memory and improved graphics. The "Gigabit" models shipped with a new lightweight power adapter as well.

The major differences are summarized below in this handy chart:

PowerBook G4	550 (Gigabit - Ti)	667 (Gigabit - Ti)
Processor:	550 MHz	667 MHz
System Bus:	100 MHz	100 MHz
Level 2 Cache:	256k (on chip)	256k (on chip)
Memory Type:	PC133 SDRAM	PC133 SDRAM
Std. RAM:	128, 256 MB*	256, 512 MB*
Max. RAM:	1.0 GB	1.0 GB
Display:	15.2" Widescreen	15.2" Widescreen
Resolution:	1152x768	1152x768
Video Card:	Mobility Radeon	Mobility Radeon
Video RAM:	16 MB	16 MB
Hard Drive:	20 GB	30 GB
Optical Drive:	6X DVD-ROM*	6X DVD-ROM*
AirPort (802.11b):	Optional	Standard
Bluetooth:	N/A	N/A
Expansion:	Type I/II PC Card	Type I/II PC Card
Battery Life:	5 Hours	5 Hours
Dimensions (Inches):	1.1 x 13.4 x 9.5	1.1 x 13.4 x 9.5
Weight:	5.3 lbs (2.4 kg)	5.3 lbs (2.4 kg)
Orig. Model No:	M8362LL/A*	M8363LL/A*
Orig. Price:	US$2199	US$2999

*On December 17, 2001, both systems were upgraded with twice the amount of RAM standard and a DVD/CD-RW "Combo" drive. The upgraded models likewise were assigned new model numbers, M8622LL/A and M8623LL/A, respectively.

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